Kangaroo Island is an important conservation site in South Australia thanks to its remarkable wildlife populations and expanses of natural vegetation that have never been cleared. Day tours from Adelaide are an excellent way to visit Australia’s third largest island. Highlights include the colonies of little penguins, the sea lions, the unusual rock formations at Flinders Chase National Park and, of course, the kangaroos. Much of the island is now protected, but despite these sterling efforts, the penguins are still in decline. Kangaroo Island also enjoys caves and sand dunes, providing it with an exceptional array of environments.
Although trips to Kangaroo Island from Adelaide require an early start, it’s possible to get a cheap tour that packs plenty into the itinerary and includes all transportation, including ferry crossings. There are plenty of different types of tours too, not only focussing on the wilder side of the island but also exploring the agricultural bounty, with a handful of vineyards located on the island. Here are three of the best tours to Kangaroo Island that include transport from Adelaide. The list was crafted by considering numerous factors, including the price, value for money, itinerary and previous reviews, among other things.
FROM: A$310/per person
Get an early start to catch the ferry from Adelaide to Kangaroo Island on this jam-packed day tour. From there, travel by coach to visit the sea lion colony at Seal Bay Conservation Park. Walk the boardwalk down to rugged Admirals Arch and the Remarkable Rocks, both in Flinders Chase National Park. You may also be lucky enough to spot a whole host of amazing wild animals, including the unique echidna, wallabies, kangaroos and koalas. A two-course lunch from a restaurant in the Australian bush is also included in the tour price. You’ll return to Adelaide roughly 16 hours after you set out.
From A$304/ per person
The only way to truly appreciate Kangaroo Island on a day trip from Adelaide is on an epic schedule, and this 16-hour tour is no different. Rather than seeking out the island’s natural beauty, this tour focusses on its unique produce, with numerous tastings throughout the tour. Try honey ice cream and locally-produced honey, then later on try some of the island’s boozier offerings. This includes a visit to Kangaroo Island Spirits, where gin, liqueurs and vodka are made, plus an excellent tasting session at False Cape Wines. As with the previous tour, only lunch is provided, so please bring extra cash for dinner before the ferry and coach back to Adelaide.
From A$1,253/ per person
As the previous two tours illustrate, there’s much to do and see on Kangaroo Island and even a full day’s itinerary barely scratches the surface. This two day tour offers many benefits beyond just the extra time though. Groups are limited to eight people, accommodation on the island is included, as is personalised 4×4 transport that is able to reach sites that ordinary tours usually cannot. Staying on the island also means being able to observe the wildlife as the evening draws in. All of the national park highlights are included, as well as a trip to see long-nosed fur seals at Cape du Couedic and a trip to Kelly Hill Conservation Park, one of the best spots on the island to see kangaroos.
